Bournemouth's ascent and appeal under Eddie Howe

Eddie Howe has taken Bournemouth from the bottom of League Two, all the way to the Premier League during his time as manager. Bournemouth are now admired throughout the country, the club is still progressing, and Howe's reputation continues to enhance.

Bournemouth football club has risen in stature since Eddie Howe first took over as manager. The Cherries were struggling in League Two at the time; Howe's arrival not only saved the club from relegation, it also enabled Bournemouth to reach new heights in the years ahead. Howe's side unexpectedly reached the pinnacle of English football, the Premier League, and the club is on its way to firmly establishing themselves in the top division. Bournemouth's achievements are awe-inspiring, but what's more impressive is the football philosophy Howe has persisted with.

Howe had two spells at Bournemouth as a player, making almost 250 appearances, so his affinity with the club began long before he started his managerial journey at Dean Court. Howe became the youngest manager in the football league when he was appointed by the Cherries in 2009, but he quickly established himself as a talented manager. As at the tender age of 32, he guided Bournemouth to promotion to League One in his first full season in charge. However, midway through the next campaign, Howe left the club to become manager of Burnley.

Howe returned to manage Bournemouth in October 2012 and his arrival instantly produced an impact: Bournemouth finished League One runners-up in 2012-13, the club then quickly adapted to life in the Championship, and finished the season in mid-table. Bournemouth was on the rise, with Howe the mastermind behind the club's success. The season after, the Cherries produced some scintillating football, which took them to the Championship title. Bournemouth and Eddie Howe had unbelievably reached the top of English football and a place in the Premier League beckoned.

Cast your minds back to 2007-08, Bournemouth had just been relegated to League Two; the club was suffering immensely, both on and off the pitch. Eight seasons later, combined with hard work, a well-placed structure, talented lower league players, and a visionary manager, Bournemouth had miraculously earned their place in the Premier League. Bournemouth began their first ever campaign in the English top division as the favourites for relegation. However, the club once again defied the odds to finish in 16th place, five points clear of the drop.

Bournemouth's place among the elite has been further cemented this season: Howe's side recruited some talented players during the summer, the south coast club continue to improve on the pitch, and Bournemouth find themselves in the top half of the Premier League table after nine games - 10th place. The club's success is due to many factors, but Howe has played an essential role in Bournemouth's success. The former winner of the Football League manager of the decade award is proving he can cut it at the highest level, which is why Howe has recently been linked with the England job. But why has Eddie Howe achieved so much success with Bournemouth?

One of the key elements to Bournemouth's success is the style of football they play, which Howe has encouraged and developed since he arrived at the club. Bournemouth like to play out from the back, the side tries to keep possession, relying on movement off the ball, and they then attack in numbers. It's entertaining to watch, and although Howe's football philosophy can sometimes leave his side frail defensively, he has stuck to his principles, even in times of adversity. Howe's idea of how the game should be played has had hugely positive results for Bournemouth.

The recent loan signing of Jack Wilshere is also partly down to Howe. Wilshere struggled to break into the Arsenal side, he made just three Premier League appearances last season; although he has considerable talent, injuries have plagued his career. So Arsene Wenger decided to let his English midfielder leave on a season-long loan to gain some valuable game time. Wilshere had a host of club's waiting to sign him, but he chose Bournemouth; one of the reasons was their style of play. This is another benefit of having Howe as manager, he can attract top players to Bournemouth.

Bournemouth's squad consists of experienced players and youngsters with potential. Simon Francis and Steve Cook have formed the centre-back partnership this season: both have been at Bournemouth for six seasons, and they have played a crucial role in the Cherries recent history. Whereas recent signings Jordon Ibe, 20, and Lewis Cook, 19, were signed with an eye on the future. Howe's recognised the importance of having a balanced side; finding the balance between using tested players and building a team for the future stands Bournemouth in good stead.

Howe has already proven he can develop players and turn them into stars, most noticeably in the current squad with Harry Arter and Callum Wilson. Arter has been sensational this season, his growth as a player has been heavily influenced by Howe and it coincides with Bournemouth's rise over the past seven seasons. Arter is fast becoming a complete midfielder, as he can pass, tackle, shoot, and he covers the whole of the pitch. The Republic of Ireland midfielder typifies Bournemouth's attitude with his mix of footballing ability and sheer determination.

Every team with aspirations in the Premier League requires a formidable goalscorer: Bournemouth have Wilson. Wilson's had a rapid rise since he joined the Cherries, scoring 20 goals for the club in his first season, which played a big part in securing Bournemouth's promotion to the Premier League. Wilson possesses pace, combined with superb finishing ability, and despite suffering a serious injury last season, he managed to score five times in seven games. Under Howe's guidance, Wilson has become a feared striker in the Premier League.

From a small family club at the bottom of League Two, Bournemouth has transformed over the last eight years, which culminated in the club joining the Premier League's elite. Howe's worked wonders during his time as Bournemouth manager: guiding the club to three promotions, while implementing a clear strategy off the pitch, and an effective plan on the pitch. Bournemouth's progression doesn't look like coming to an end anytime soon as Howe continues to get the best out of his side this season.

There are exciting times ahead at Dean Court: Just how far can Eddie Howe take Bournemouth?

Passions include reading, sport, and nights out with friends. A football fanatic whose writing career began in May 2016. Now 30 years old, lives in South Yorkshire - local team is Doncaster Rovers, although heart lies with Arsenal. Contributing editor for It's Round And It's White. Current claim to fame is an interview with Ron Atkinson. Always looking for work, either editing or writing. Contact via email: Dannysg1988@outlook.com. Or Twitter: @DannySG1988.